Publishers Weekly
10/23/2023
Lillard (One More Time for Joy) centers the cheery conclusion to the Paradise Valley series on the power of positivity, sweet treats, and second chances. Hattie Schrock, 59-year-old co-owner of Poppin’ Paradise Popcorn Shop, is well-known in the Amish community of Paradise Springs, Mo., for her easy smile and sunny disposition. When she and her cousin (and co-owner) Elsie realize they’ve never seen widower Christian Beachy without his perpetual frown, they make a bet: Hattie has 60 days to get Christian to smile, or she must clean the copper pots in the popcorn shop for one year. Hattie invites Christian to a benefit event hosted by the Whoopie Pie Widows’ Club, where the two bond over lively games of horseshoes (and whoopie pies). Though Christian still won’t smile, Hattie realizes there’s more to the gentle, withdrawn widower than meets the eye. But just as their friendship starts to bloom into something more, Christian discovers Hattie’s bet, threatening to bring their romance to an end before it can really begin. Lillard’s characters are satisfyingly three-dimensional and easy to root for, including Christian, whose cantankerous exterior belies a gentle and generous heart. Lillard’s fans will delight in this enchanting testament to the benefits of looking on the bright side. (Dec.)
From the Publisher
Praise for Amy Lillard’s Amish Romances
“Lillard bakes up a new Amish romance series with an appetizing theme, set in Paradise Springs, Mo., where a neighborhood support group called the Whoopie Pie Widows Club convenes…Lillard’s assembled a quirky cast for this new series, and, as a bonus, included recipes (yes, whoopie pies are in the mix). Readers will delight in this sweet love story and stay hungry for the next installment.” —Publishers Weekly on Marry Me, Millie
“When their relationship takes a romantic turn, their families try to keep them apart, but their courage in pursuing love and independence changes what their families think they are capable of. Lillard does an excellent job of depicting with accuracy and compassion the difficulties faced by those with mental disabilities. This affecting tale will surely inspire.” —Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW on Loving Jenna
“Lillard’s rich descriptions of Amish life and endearing portrayal of Amos’s courtship will please any fan of Amish fiction.” —Publishers Weekly on Romancing Nadine
“An inspirational story of romance, faith, and trust…will appeal to fans of Wanda Brunstetter and Beverly Lewis.” —Library Journal on Caroline’s Secret
“Fans of inspirational romance will appreciate Lillard’s vivid characters and positive message.” —Publishers Weekly on Titus Returns
“Friendship, unexpected romance and the value of repentance and second chances.” —Simple Grace on Titus Returns
“This story really took me in and I felt the hurts and love written in the pages like I was right there among the characters.” —Amish Wisdom on A Love for Leah